Purbaya Calls for Greater Efficiency in MBG Programme

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has called for the MBG programme to become more efficient. He conveyed this request to the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). Purbaya also admitted to frequently discussing the efficiency of the MBG programme with BGN Head Dadan Hindayana. “We won’t interfere with MBG. We support MBG. But we ask MBG to be more efficient. That’s about it. We keep discussing it with the MBG head,” Purbaya said during a media briefing on Friday (24/4/2026). According to him, savings have already been implemented by cutting MBG days to five from the original seven. Purbaya added that BGN has also promised additional savings, allowing the budget to be reduced from the original Rp335 trillion. “They will control the other expenses so the budget will be much less than Rp335 trillion. So there will be significant savings for MBG,” he stated. Regarding the Corruption Eradication Commission’s findings on potential corruption in the MBG programme, Purbaya emphasised that it falls under the KPK’s authority. Nevertheless, Purbaya noted weaknesses here and there in the programme. However, these shortcomings and weaknesses are within normal limits considering the programme is still new. In light of these weaknesses, Purbaya stressed that the Finance Ministry is assisting with supervision and screening of its financing to prevent any unusual programmes. “We do see weaknesses here and there, but for a new programme, it’s normal and can be improved going forward. We will also improve the financing screening process so there are no more strange programmes being funded,” he explained. “Savings will come from there,” he continued. Finally, Purbaya assured that the Finance Ministry supports MBG. However, the ministry still requests that MBG becomes more efficient.